Walking the Talk: Mandatory Energy Efficiency in all Buildings in South Africa

Abstract

This article looks at the recently promulgated energy efficiency standard and code for buildings in South Africa. Energy efficiency intervention becomes imperative in view of the fact that South Africa is vulnerable to the impact of climate change. Although numerous interventions have been put in place and being implemented by the government to achieve a sustainable energy use, none compelled energy efficiency in buildings until when the government introduced the Energy Efficiency code in buildings. This article examines the significance of the code and the standards set for energy efficiency and other alternative energy; what it sets out to achieve; and the support needed to realise the overarching provisions of the code.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n20p3048